Lewis Hamilton gets update as Mercedes upgrade plan changes ahead of Monaco GP

18 May 2023 , 17:40

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Upgrades are due for Mercedes' W14 cars (Image: AP)

Mercedes still plan to introduce their new upgrades a week later than planned after the cancellation of the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.

Unable to come close to competing with the runaway Red Bulls so far this season, the Silver Arrows have been working hard to make these improvements to their cars. After the Azerbaijan race last month, Lewis Hamilton declared he was "counting down the days" until he could race in an upgraded car.

He has been made to wait a little longer, due to the cancellation of this weekend's race in Italy. Deadly floods in the region have put some towns near the circuit under water and made some roads impassable, putting emergency services under tremendous strain already.

The race was called off on Wednesday before essential crews were allowed back into the paddock to move equipment and get it on the road to Monaco. After all, the next race will take place in the principality next weekend.

That means the Mercedes upgrades will also be making the journey. Mirror Sport understands the new bodywork, floor and front suspension promised by team principal Toto Wolff were already in place and so will simply be used in Monaco instead of Imola as planned.

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And there are no concerns over everything being set up in time for that race. Flooded roads near to the Imola track will no doubt present some logistical challenges, but F1 chiefs are confident that there will be no delays to the start of the Monaco Grand Prix weekend.

Lewis Hamilton has been 'counting down the days' until these upgrades are ready (AP)

Hamilton and his fellow F1 drivers unanimously backed the decision to call off this weekend's race. He said: "Hoping everyone in Emilia-Romagna is able to stay safe and look out for each other right now. Thoughts are with those affected by this tragedy and the amazing emergency services working on the ground. I know we all understand that safety comes first. Can't wait to see you all at the next race."

Mercedes team-mate George Russell added: "Sorry for the fans that this weekend's race has been cancelled but the safety of everyone involved always has to come first. Wishing all the best to everyone in the Emilia-Romagna region and surrounding areas that have been affected by these floods."

Defending champion and standings leader Max Verstappen echoed those sentiments in his own statement. "Our thoughts are with all those affected by the severe rainfall and flooding in the greater Emilia-Romagna region. We wish you all strength to ensure your safety throughout this period," said the Red Bull racer.

Daniel Moxon